Carteret Police Launch “Click It Or Ticket” Campaign

CARTERET—Beginning on May 19 and continuing through June 1, 2008, the Carteret Police Department and police departments throughout the state will be stepping up enforcement and education of New Jersey’s seat belt laws. This campaign ties into a nationwide mobilization effort known as “Click It or Ticket”.

The unified goal of the program is to increase seat belt usage across the state and the nation. Last year the seat belt usage rate in New Jersey increased for the eleventh consecutive year and now stands at 91.4%. This year the goal is to increase New Jersey’s rate to at least 93%.

Seat belt usage is considered essential for all who travel our roadways but especially important teens and young adults. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for people age 15 to 34 in the United States.

During the mobilization period police agencies will conduct a zero tolerance seatbelt enforcement campaign. Motorists who are not buckled up will be issued a ticket. In addition, concerted efforts are going on locally and statewide to raise awareness about the important and life-saving benefits of wearing seatbelts.

“High visibility enforcement saves lives” said Pamela Fischer, director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “Our goal is to make sure that all motor vehicle occupants are property restrained, on every trip.”

The Carteret Police Department has actively and successfully participated in the Click It or Ticket mobilization for over five years and plans to do so this year as well. Additional patrols will be part of the overall effort which will focus on public awareness, high visibility and zero tolerance for seat belt infractions says Capt. Robert L. Talalai, coordinator of the project for the Carteret Police Department.